Reformation Brewery - Cadence

Reformation’s interpretation of a Belgian dubbel presents the expected deep brownish red color, topped by a head of beige foam. In the aroma, look for plenty of luscious caramel undertones overlaid by dried dark fruits and a light spicy note, and a touch of Belgian yeast-driven herbal phenols. On the palate, this is a nicely realized take on the dubbel style – quite toasty at the center and surrounded by sweeter caramelized notes, fruity impressions ranging from dried fig to bright berry to hints of citrus rind, plus some mild hop bitterness to dry things out in the end. Round and smooth on the palate, but without heaviness, we found Cadence to be a super tasty and approachable dubbel that is delicious on its own, but also capable of an array of food pairings. Grilled meats and stews are a good call, as are roasted pork loin with a fruity glaze, or lamb chops with a raspberry mint sauce. The brewery recommends roasted duck or a premium cheeseburger, and those sound great to us, as well. Chocolate or toffee desserts work well, too, as does a selection of pungent washed-rind cheeses. Cheers!

Reformation Brewery didn’t begin as a lifelong dream followed by years and years of careful planning. It was actually a bit of an accident. Co-founders Spencer Nix and Nick Downs met and became friends years ago when Nick was a Delta pilot who would bring great European beers back with him to the US. This was at a time before the craft beer revolution had reached the Southeast in a significant way. When Nick eventually moved up to flying larger planes and his routes became more global, his supply of European brews dried up. Fatefully, Nick and Spencer decided they’d just make the beers themselves, and began homebrewing. As they routinely produced more than they could consume, they began inviting folks over to drink up the stock… and things spiraled from there. Over the next few years these events grew massively; sometimes as many as 150 people would show up, often traveling from other states to experience Nick & Spencer’s great beer – and the great community that had sprung up around it.

With their friends encouraging them – and offering to invest – the duo decided to open their own official brewery, with Reformation Brewery coming to life in Woodstock, GA in 2013. The company’s entire ethos remains focused around the fantastic conversation, camaraderie, and sense of community that led Reformation to its genesis in the first place. On this path, they’ve opened additional locations in Canton and Smyrna, the former now serving as the main production location for their numerous year-round, seasonal, and limited production offerings. In addition to beer, Reformation also produces ranch waters and other canned cocktails, as well as a line of spirits. For more info, visit them at reformationbrewery.com.